Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the clock ticks down to dinner time and I’m staring at an empty fridge, I find myself in a mini crisis – what to make that’s not only quick but also satisfying? Enter my High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta, a rush of comfort that transforms my chaotic evenings into a delightful experience. This dish is not just about filling bellies; it’s about bringing family together over a hearty meal in under 30 minutes. Imagine tender pasta entwined in a velvety sauce, featuring savory beef and a hint of fresh basil—it’s a weeknight wonder that won’t leave you feeling heavy. Plus, this high-protein creation can easily be adapted with chickpea pasta for a nutritious twist. Are you ready to whip up a bowl of creamy goodness that feels like a warm hug after a long day? Let’s dive in! Why Is This Pasta Recipe Irresistible? Simplicity, making dinner a breeze! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta can be yours in 30 minutes. Comforting flavors come together in a luscious sauce that’s perfect for those hectic evenings, leaving you and your loved ones feeling satisfied. Versatile options allow you to easily swap in chickpea pasta for a health boost or use ground turkey for a lighter take. Crowd-pleaser appeal means even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds! Meal prep-friendly, this dish can be made ahead and stored, so you can enjoy creamy goodness anytime during the week. Dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite! Creamy Beef Pasta Ingredients • Get ready for this delectable Creamy Beef Pasta! For the Pasta Chickpea or High-Protein Pasta – A nutritious base for the dish; swapping in regular pasta will slightly alter nutritional values. For the Sauté Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing vegetables and beef to perfection. Onion (1 medium, finely diced) – Adds a sweet depth of flavor to the dish. Green Bell Pepper (1 medium, finely diced) – Provides texture and a touch of sweetness; swap for red bell pepper for a different taste. For the Protein Lean Ground Beef (1 lb) – The star protein source; can be substituted with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Garlic Cloves (4, crushed) – Infuses the dish with delightful aroma and flavor. For the Seasoning Dried Oregano (1 tbsp) – A herbal note that enhances the savory profile; consider Italian seasoning as an alternative. Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds mild spice and beautiful color; use smoked paprika for a richer flavor. Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for a perfect finish. For the Sauce Tomato Paste (2 tbsp) – Concentrated flavor essential for a rich sauce. Tomato Sauce or Passata (1 cup) – Forms the sauce’s hearty base; use canned diced tomatoes for more texture. Light Cream Cheese (½ cup) – Adds creaminess without too many calories; Greek yogurt is a viable alternative, but handle it with care to avoid curdling. Light Sour Cream (½ cup) – Provides tang and richness; can be replaced with non-fat Greek yogurt. For Garnish Fresh Basil Leaves (6–8, torn) – Enhance flavor and freshness; parsley can work well in its place if you’re out of basil. Whip up this creamy creation and experience the delight of a comforting dinner with a twist! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Step 1: Cook the Pasta Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add your choice of chickpea or high-protein pasta and cook according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to await its creamy union with the sauce. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until the onion is translucent and tender, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The aromatic vegetables will infuse your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta with a wonderful depth of flavor. Step 3: Brown the Beef Add 1 pound of lean ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir in the crushed garlic cloves, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper during the last few minutes of browning, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Cook until the beef is well-browned and no longer pink, ensuring it’s fully cooked for that hearty, comforting core of your creamy pasta dish. Step 4: Create the Sauce Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 cup of tomato sauce or passata into the beef mixture and bring to a gentle simmer over low heat. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, which will meld the flavors beautifully. Keep an eye out for a slightly thickened texture, as this luscious sauce forms the heart of your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Step 5: Incorporate Creaminess Now, turn down the heat to low and mix in ½ cup of light cream cheese and ½ cup of light sour cream until melted and creamy. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and luscious, taking care to avoid boiling to prevent curdling. This creamy element will envelop the pasta with rich flavor, making it feel like a warm embrace. Step 6: Toss with Pasta Gently add the cooked pasta to your creamy sauce in the skillet. Using tongs, toss the pasta with the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated and well combined. You’ll notice how beautifully the creamy sauce clings to each piece of pasta, creating that delightful experience that defines your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once plated, garnish your dish with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm in deep bowls, and savor the comforting aromas wafting from your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta as it brings everyone together around the dinner table. Enjoy this quick and delicious meal as a perfect end to a busy day! Make Ahead Options These High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the beef sauce up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it, which enhances the flavors while making your dinner prep a breeze. Simply cook the sauce as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, reheat the sauce over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to maintain its creamy texture. Cook the pasta fresh right before serving to ensure it’s tender and absorbs the sauce nicely, providing you with just as delicious a meal that feels like a warm embrace after a hectic day. Creamy Beef Pasta Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe—your kitchen is your canvas! Each variation can bring delightful new flavors and textures to your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta. Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey to lighten the dish without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for those looking to reduce red meat intake! Chickpea Pasta: Use chickpea pasta instead of regular or high-protein pasta for added fiber and protein. This change makes every bite guilt-free while still being delicious! Add Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to enhance nutrition and texture. Each vegetable adds its own unique flavor, making it an exciting option for everyone at the table. Go Spicy: Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This twist adds heat while balancing the creaminess of the sauce. Herb Swap: Replace fresh basil with parsley or cilantro for a refreshing and different herbal note. It can transform your creamy dish, giving it a new identity. Greek Yogurt: For a tangy twist, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Just remember to stir it in gently to avoid curdling while maintaining that creamy texture. Sundried Tomatoes: Add sundried tomatoes for a burst of umami flavor. They elevate the taste profile and add a lovely texture contrast within the creamy sauce. Smoked Paprika: Swap regular paprika for smoked paprika to infuse a delightful, smoky flavor. This adds depth and warmth to your creamy beef dish that family and friends will adore. Feel inspired? Dive deeper into other pasta creations such as High Protein Pasta or try the delightful twist of Italian Pasta Salad. Each variation invites a new adventure! Expert Tips for Creamy Beef Pasta Pasta Perfection: Always cook your pasta al dente; this ensures it holds up in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Balanced Seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go! Adjust salt and pepper for a perfectly seasoned dish, making your creamy beef pasta shine. Dairy Dilemma: Lower the heat before adding cream cheese and sour cream to avoid curdling. This step preserves the smooth texture you desire. Make-ahead Magic: Prep the sauce in advance and refrigerate. On busy nights, just reheat it and add freshly cooked pasta for a quick meal. Veggie Variations: Don’t shy away from adding extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. They boost both nutrition and flavor in your creamy beef pasta. How to Store and Freeze Creamy Beef Pasta Fridge: Store leftover creamy beef pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the pasta and sauce separate to maintain the pasta’s texture. Freezer: Freeze the beef sauce in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Cooked pasta can become mushy, so consider freezing only the sauce. Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw the sauce overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat on the stove. Add a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess before mixing in the pasta. Make-Ahead Tip: Preparing the creamy beef sauce in advance makes serving effortless during busy weeknights. What to Serve with High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta Elevate your weeknight dinner with delightful accompaniments that bring balance and flavor to your creamy pasta dish. Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture and buttery aroma are perfect for soaking up that luscious creamy sauce. Fresh Arugula Salad: A light, peppery salad adds a refreshing contrast, brightening the meal with its crispness. Roasted Vegetables: Think seasoned zucchini and bell peppers; they add depth while keeping your plate colorful and nutritious. Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy coleslaw provides a delightful contrast to the warmth of the pasta, enhancing the meal’s texture. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed veggie brings a burst of green and healthiness, complementing the hearty beef beautifully. Red Wine: A bold Malbec enhances the savory flavors of your High-Protein Creamy Beef Pasta, creating a delightful dining experience. Pairing these elements with your creamy creation invites warmth and satisfaction to the table, ensuring every bite feels like a cozy hug. Creamy Beef Pasta Recipe FAQs How do I select the best pasta for this recipe? Absolutely! For this Creamy Beef Pasta, I recommend using chickpea or high-protein pasta for a nutritional boost. Look for firm pasta without dark spots or cracks. If opting for regular pasta, choose a shape that holds the sauce well, like penne or fusilli. What’s the best way to store leftovers? To keep your creamy beef pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain the pasta’s texture, I suggest keeping the sauce and pasta separate during storage. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess. Can I freeze this creamy beef sauce? Yes, you can! Store the cooked beef sauce in a sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just remember that cooked pasta doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best to only freeze the sauce. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently, adding a little liquid to bring back the creamy texture. What steps should I follow to avoid curdling the cream in the sauce? Very good question! To avoid curdling, always reduce the heat to low before incorporating the cream and cream cheese into the sauce. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until melted and creamy to achieve that perfect velvety smoothness. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! If you have allergies to dairy, you can substitute cream cheese and sour cream with silken tofu blended until smooth, or use non-dairy yogurt. Just be cautious with spices if you have sensitivity to heat; adjust according to your palate. Can I prepare the sauce in advance, and how does that work? Absolutely! You can prepare the creamy beef sauce in advance. Cook the sauce, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. On a busy night, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time while still enjoying a homemade meal! Creamy Beef Pasta That Warms Your Soul in 30 Minutes Delight in this high-protein creamy beef pasta that brings comfort and warmth to any weeknight meal in just 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: BeefCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Chickpea or High-Protein Pasta A nutritious base for the dish.For the Sauté2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for sautéing.1 medium Onion (finely diced) Adds sweet flavor.1 medium Green Bell Pepper (finely diced) Provides texture and sweetness.For the Protein1 pound Lean Ground Beef The main protein source.4 cloves Garlic (crushed) Infuses flavor.For the Seasoning1 tablespoon Dried Oregano Enhances savory profile.1 teaspoon Paprika Adds spice and color.0.5 teaspoon Salt Essential seasoning.0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste.For the Sauce2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrated flavor.1 cup Tomato Sauce or Passata Forms the base.0.5 cup Light Cream Cheese Adds creaminess.0.5 cup Light Sour Cream Provides tang.For Garnish6-8 leaves Fresh Basil (torn) Enhances flavor. Equipment large potLarge SkilletColanderwooden spoonTongs Method Step-by-Step InstructionsCook the pasta al dente in salted boiling water, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté onion and bell pepper for 5-6 minutes.Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart while cooking. Stir in garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.Incorporate tomato paste and sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.Mix in cream cheese and sour cream on low heat until melted and smooth.Toss cooked pasta with sauce in the skillet until well coated.Garnish with fresh basil before serving warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 3mg NotesFor best results, cook pasta al dente and adjust seasoning to personal taste. Can be made in advance for quick weeknight meals. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
